English Professional Skills (3 cr)

Evaluation scale

H-5

Content scheduling

Two class meetings in September, otherwise independent or group work

Objective

The student can function in English-language situations typically encountered within the field both in speaking and in writing. The student uses a varied range of language tools and strategies to develop his/her language skills within an authentic professional context. S/he can use field-related terminology and relevant written and spoken text types and registers. The student can realistically assess his/her English communication skills and needs for development, and can act accordingly. Level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages is aimed at.

Content

Information is sought and retrieved from various kinds of English-language sources, and processed to produce reports, talks and other relevant output. The more demanding field-specific text types are studied. Presentation skills are enhanced. The demands of an international working environment are pondered. The study unit is partly integrated with studies in chemical engineering and materials technology.

Materials

Links to materials can be found in itslearning. Some material is provided by the students themselves.

Teaching methods

The topics dealt with both in speaking and in writing are related to the content matter within the student's study programme.

Exam schedules

The course is assessed continuously based on tasks and active attendance. There is no final exam and thus also no retake exam. Possibly some small tests on limited subject area content (homework material) along the way.

Pedagogic approaches and sustainable development

This is a skills subject and skills need to be practised. Webcam + microphone needed for online sessions, if any.

Completion alternatives

None

Student workload

Two practice sessions in the classroom or online
Independent information retrieval
Reporting in speaking and in writing

Evaluation methods and criteria

One pre-class task (Instrumentation skills profile), two detailed course tasks (instrument/device/system mastery from two different viewpoints), in-class presentation, and one post-course task.
All tasks need to be completed acceptably as instructed on itslearning.

Failed (0)

Tasks not completed or not in compliance with instructions, attendance criteria not met, and/or language issues seriously hampering communication.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2)

- message not fully clear despite effort
- quite many issues with language mechanics
- tasks only partly completed

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

- tasks in compliance with instructions
- good use of relevant reference material and hence good grasp of content
- logical spoken and written text
- few or no grammar/vocabulary issues
- a communicative approach during contact sessions